Adaptive Terrain Morphing Chassis for Off-Highway Vehicles: Enhancing Fuel Efficiency Through Dynamic Structural Adaptation

Off-highway vehicles (OHVs) frequently encounter difficult terrains such as swamps, deserts, and rocky landscapes, which can lead to increased fuel usage due to elevated rolling resistance and irregular surfaces. This paper suggests an adaptive terrain morphing chassis that actively modifies its structure to enhance fuel efficiency and vehicle performance. Employing soft robotics concepts and hydraulic morphing materials, the chassis can vary its height, width, and track shape in accordance with real-time terrain evaluations. These modifications assist in lowering rolling resistance, boosting traction, and improving stability. For instance, the chassis may expand in marshy regions for better weight distribution or reduce in height in rocky environments for enhanced stability. Key features consist of: Real-time terrain evaluation using sensors to modify chassis configurations. Hydraulic actuators and adaptive polymers that change the vehicle’s structure for peak performance. Fuel efficiency enhancement by decreasing energy losses and improving traction across diverse landscapes. This strategy seeks to minimize fuel consumption and environmental effects while enhancing OHV performance in various settings, presenting a sustainable option for sectors such as construction, mining, and agriculture.